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As the players shook hands, Francesco took a deep breath, soaking it all in. He had been a key part of the victory—scoring, assisting, and playing a crucial role in Arsenal's attacking dominance.
As the final whistle blew and the scoreboard confirmed Arsenal's emphatic 5-0 victory over West Ham, the players exchanged handshakes and embraces, a mix of exhaustion and satisfaction on their faces. The Emirates crowd was still buzzing, singing songs of triumph as the team slowly made their way toward the tunnel.
Francesco, his jersey damp with sweat, took a deep breath as he walked with his teammates toward the dressing room. It had been a near-perfect performance—not just for the team, but for him personally. Two goals, an assist, and a Man of the Match-worthy display.
Just as he was about to step into the tunnel, a staff member from the Premier League caught up to him, tapping him on the shoulder.
"Francesco, congratulations! You've been named Man of the Match again," the official said with a smile. "We need you for a quick post-match interview before you head in."
Francesco, slightly taken aback, glanced at his teammates, who smirked and patted him on the back.
"Go on, superstar," Ramsey teased, grinning. "We'll save you a spot in the ice bath."
Rosický chuckled. "Maybe we should start calling you the MOTM magnet."
Francesco laughed, shaking his head before turning to the official. "Alright, let's do it."
He followed the staff member toward the designated interview area near the tunnel entrance, where a Premier League-branded backdrop stood. A reporter from Sky Sports was already waiting, microphone in hand, as the camera crew adjusted their angles.
The reporter, a tall man with a friendly smile, greeted him warmly. "Francesco, another brilliant performance from you today—two goals and an all-around dominant display. How are you feeling after that win?"
Francesco wiped his brow and took a moment before responding. "Yeah, I feel great. It was a fantastic team performance today. We knew West Ham would come at us in the second half, and they did put us under pressure for a bit, but we managed to stay calm and take our chances when they came. I'm just happy to contribute to the win."
The reporter nodded. "Let's talk about your goals. The first one—absolute class, cutting inside and bending it past Adrian. The second, a real poacher's finish after some brilliant buildup play. Do you have a favorite between the two?"
Francesco chuckled. "I think the first one was a bit more special because of the way it opened up for me. I saw the space and just went for it. The second was more about positioning and reacting quickly, but honestly, both goals felt great, especially in front of our fans."
"Speaking of the fans, the Emirates was electric today. How much of a boost does that give you as a player?"
"A massive boost," Francesco answered, his eyes glancing toward the stands where some supporters were still lingering, chanting and waving their scarves. "When you hear the crowd behind you, pushing you forward, it gives you that extra bit of energy. It makes a huge difference, especially in moments where the opposition is on top."
The reporter smiled. "One last question—this is yet another Man of the Match award for you. You're quickly becoming a key player for Arsenal despite your young age. Do you feel any pressure with that?"
Francesco shrugged slightly, a confident but humble expression on his face. "Not really pressure, but responsibility. I know what's expected of me, and I just want to keep improving and helping the team. Football is about consistency, so I try to focus on one game at a time and do my best every time I step onto the pitch."
The reporter grinned. "Well, you certainly did your best today. Congratulations on another outstanding performance, Francesco!"
"Thanks a lot," Francesco replied, shaking hands with the reporter before stepping away.
As he made his way back toward the dressing room, he was met with a round of applause from his teammates, who had been watching the interview on a screen inside.
"Man of the Match again?" Walcott called out with a grin. "We might as well reserve that trophy for you every week."
Flamini clapped him on the back. "If you keep this up, mate, they'll have to rename it the 'Francesco Award'."
Francesco laughed, shaking his head as he dropped onto one of the benches. The adrenaline was still coursing through his veins, but he could finally allow himself to relax.
Wenger soon entered the dressing room, his usual composed demeanor in place. "Well done, everyone. That was a performance to be proud of."
He looked around the room, his gaze settling on Francesco for a moment. "Francesco, another excellent display. Keep this level up."
Francesco nodded respectfully. "Thank you, boss."
As Francesco settled onto the bench, letting the exhaustion of the match settle in, Wenger's voice cut through the celebratory atmosphere in the dressing room.
"Francesco, Per," the manager called, his gaze shifting between the young forward and the experienced defender. "I want you both to join me for the post-match press conference once you're done here."
Francesco, still catching his breath, exchanged a glance with Mertesacker, who gave a slight nod. The veteran center-back, a natural leader in the squad, was no stranger to these media duties. For Francesco, though, it was still something he was getting used to, even with his rapid rise in the team.
"Alright, boss," Francesco replied, running a hand through his damp hair. "Give us a few minutes."
Wenger gave a small nod of acknowledgment before stepping away, leaving the players to wind down after the game.
"Looks like you're becoming the face of Arsenal, kid," Mertesacker joked, stretching his long legs out as he leaned back on the bench. "They usually send me out there when they want the 'experienced leader' talking, but now? Seems like you're taking over."
Francesco smirked. "Or maybe they just want some variety. Can't have you stealing all the headlines, can we?"
Mertesacker chuckled. "Fair enough. Let's get cleaned up and get this over with."
Post-Match Press Conference
After a quick shower and change, Francesco and Mertesacker made their way down the corridor leading to the press room. As they stepped inside, the bright lights of the cameras greeted them, along with a sea of journalists already waiting for their arrival.
Wenger was already seated, looking calm as ever, while a Premier League media official gave them a subtle nod to indicate they could take their seats. Francesco adjusted his seat, trying to push aside the lingering adrenaline from the match, while Mertesacker sat next to him, arms crossed in his usual composed manner.
The moment the press conference began, hands shot up from journalists eager to ask questions.
The first question was directed at Wenger.
"Arsène, a dominant 5-0 victory today. What are your thoughts on the team's performance?"
Wenger, ever the tactician, offered his usual measured response. "I'm very pleased with the team. We showed control, discipline, and intelligence throughout the game. West Ham tried to put us under pressure in the second half, but we responded well. The most important thing was our ability to remain composed and take our chances when they came."
A follow-up question quickly came. "Francesco played a starring role again today with two goals and an assist. He's been crucial for Arsenal this season. How impressed are you with his development?"
Wenger gave a small smile, his gaze shifting momentarily to Francesco before responding. "Francesco is a special talent, but more importantly, he has the right mentality. He is humble, always working hard, and understands the responsibility that comes with playing for a club like Arsenal. He played with great intelligence today, and I believe he will only get better."
The journalists then turned their attention toward Francesco.
"Francesco, you're quickly becoming one of Arsenal's most influential players. How does it feel to be performing at such a high level at such a young age?"
Francesco took a moment before answering, careful not to sound overly confident but also wanting to acknowledge his own progress. "Honestly, I'm just enjoying my football. I try not to think too much about pressure or expectations. Every time I step onto the pitch, I just want to help the team. We have a great squad, and I'm learning from some of the best players around me, so that makes it easier."
Another journalist jumped in. "Your partnership with Mesut Özil seems to be growing with each game. How much has he helped your development?"
A small smile appeared on Francesco's face at the mention of Özil. "A lot. Mesut is a magician with the ball. The way he sees the game, the way he moves—playing alongside him makes my job easier. He's always looking for the right pass, and I just try to make the runs. He's been a huge influence on me."
The questions kept coming, this time directed at Mertesacker.
"Per, as one of the senior players in the squad, what do you think of Francesco's rise? How do the experienced players in the dressing room see him?"
Mertesacker chuckled slightly before responding. "We see him as part of the team, of course, but we also know he's special. He's got talent, but what impresses me most is his attitude. He listens, he works hard, and he's willing to learn. That's why he's succeeding. The dressing room respects that."
As the press conference continued, another journalist leaned forward, adjusting his microphone before directing his question at Francesco.
"Francesco, after today's match, you're now leading the Premier League's top scorer race with 21 goals in just 15 games. That puts you ahead of some of the league's best strikers—Diego Costa, Sergio Agüero, and Harry Kane. Given this position, do you believe you can win the Golden Boot this season? If you do, you'd be the youngest player ever to achieve that in Premier League history."
The question hung in the air for a moment, and Francesco couldn't help but feel a sense of pride swell inside him. The idea of becoming the youngest-ever top scorer in the league was something truly historic. He had been in phenomenal form, scoring consistently and proving himself at the highest level.
He leaned slightly toward the microphone, a confident smirk tugging at his lips. "Yeah, why not?" he said, his voice carrying a hint of arrogance. "I know the competition is tough—Costa, Agüero, Kane—they're all top strikers, but I back myself. I know what I can do, and if I keep playing like this, keep getting into the right positions, and keep finishing my chances, I don't see why I can't win it."
There was a murmur in the room, a mix of excitement and intrigue. Some journalists exchanged glances, sensing the boldness in Francesco's words. But none of them questioned him. After all, he had the numbers to back it up. Leading the Premier League's scoring charts at just 16 years old was no small feat, and he was outperforming some of the biggest names in world football.
Per Mertesacker, seated beside him, let out a small chuckle and shook his head slightly, amused by the youngster's growing confidence. Wenger, too, remained composed, but there was a slight glint in his eyes—perhaps appreciating the ambition.
One of the reporters followed up. "That's a big statement, Francesco. You've already proven yourself, but do you think your age and inexperience could work against you in the second half of the season? The Premier League is demanding, and strikers often find it tough to maintain this kind of form over 38 games."
Francesco didn't hesitate. "I don't see my age as a disadvantage," he said, his tone firm. "If anything, it's a strength. I have the energy, I recover quickly, and I'm hungry. I'm not here just to participate—I want to make an impact, and I believe I can keep this form going. The key is to stay focused, take things one game at a time, and keep pushing."
Wenger finally decided to step in, his calm yet authoritative voice cutting through the moment. "Francesco has shown great maturity, both in his performances and his mentality. We, as a team, will support him in every way possible. But, of course, football is unpredictable, and the focus remains on the team's success above all."
A few more questions were asked about Arsenal's title chances, the team's chemistry, and upcoming fixtures, before the press conference finally wrapped up. As they stood up from their seats, Francesco felt the lingering stares of journalists, some of whom were no doubt already preparing headlines about his Golden Boot ambition.
As they exited the press room, Mertesacker nudged Francesco with his elbow. "You really went for it, huh?"
Francesco grinned. "Might as well. If I'm leading the race, why not aim for it?"
Mertesacker laughed. "I like the confidence. Just make sure you keep scoring, or they'll be all over you."
Wenger, walking slightly ahead, turned back and gave Francesco a knowing glance. "Ambition is good, but remember—humility and hard work will take you further."
Francesco nodded. "I understand, boss."
With that, they made their way back to the dressing room, where his teammates were already deep in post-match recovery. Some were in the ice baths, others getting massages from the physios. Theo Walcott looked up as they walked in.
"How was the press conference, Golden Boot leader?" he teased.
Francesco smirked. "All good. They just wanted to know if I plan on breaking records this season."
Santi Cazorla, sitting on a bench with his boots off, grinned. "And what did you say?"
"I said yes," Francesco replied, his confidence unwavering.
Laughter rippled through the room, but there was also respect in their eyes. The young forward had proven himself time and time again, and now, he was setting his sights on history.
The aftermath of Francesco's press conference was exactly what he expected—media outlets ran with his comments, headlines boasting his ambition in bold letters.
"Francesco Aims for Golden Boot: Youngest Ever Premier League Top Scorer?"
"Arsenal's Teen Sensation Declares Himself Ready to Beat Agüero, Costa & Kane"
"Confidence or Arrogance? Francesco's Bold Golden Boot Claim Divides Opinion"
Some pundits praised his belief in himself, while others warned that he might be putting unnecessary pressure on his shoulders. Former players like Thierry Henry and Alan Shearer backed him, saying that his form justified the confidence. Others, like Roy Keane, remained skeptical.
"Confidence is great," Keane said on Sky Sports, "but let's see where he is in April, when the real pressure kicks in."
Francesco didn't let any of it bother him. If anything, it fueled his determination.
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Name : Francesco Lee
Age : 16 (2014)
Birthplace : London, England
Football Club : Arsenal First Team
Championship History : None
Match Played: 21
Goal: 26
Assist: 12
MOTM: 8